Page 59 of How to Get Even

‘Chase? Is everything okay?’

‘Yes, I just…’ He didn’t really know what to say.

Bella looked at the box, a little spark flickering in those grey eyes and he nearly laughed.

‘I got this for you. As a thank you,’ he said, the words coming to mind. ‘You’ve been picking up a lot of my slack while I’ve been working with Sascha and this is a little – and by no means the least – thank you, for all your hard work.’

Chase took a breath as he noticed the flush on her cheeks.

‘If we do make it to the opening, it will be thanks to you,’ he added, truthfully. ‘We,I, couldn’t be doing this without you.’

Bella swallowed and he wondered if she’d said something wrong. He’d have thought that she’d be grateful. Or at least even a little snarky, but the quietness was new on her.

‘Thank you,’ she said, taking the box from where he held it out to her.

She took a little peak under the lid.

‘Oh.It’s red velvet,’ she said, surprised.

‘I thought you’d like it,’ he replied without thinking.

She looked up at him and he was blasted by an unreadable grey gaze.

‘Thank you,’ she whispered.

And again he was struck by the thought that something was wrong. That she needed comfort, or reassurance. He opened his mouth but she cut him off saying good night and closed the door, leaving him half relieved. Because he’d wanted something then. Something he had no business wanting.

Her.

12

In war, the victorious strategist only seeks battle after victory has been won.

THE ART OF WAR, SUN TZU

OPERATION TROJAN HORSE

Bask in the glow of success!

Just Desserts WhatsApp Group. 09.45EST.

Sienna

Oh

My

GOD!!

Astrid

It’s AMAZING!

@Sienna did you read it? @Bella are you awake yet? @Paige where are you??

Sienna

I think it’s the most incredible thing I’ve ever read.

---